Nonvolatile memory device, read method for nonvolatile memory device, and memory system incorporating nonvolatile memory device

ABSTRACT

A method of performing a read operation on nonvolatile memory device comprises receiving a read command, receiving addresses, detecting a transition of a read enable signal, generating a strobe signal based on the transition of the read enable signal, reading data corresponding to the received addresses, and outputting the read data after the strobe signal is toggled a predetermined number of times.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is an application for reissue of U.S. Pat. No. 9,318,172, and is acontinuation of application Ser. No. 16/881,822, which is also anapplication for reissue of U.S. Pat. No. 9,318,172. Said applicationSer. No. 16/881,822, now U.S. Pat. No. RE48,431, is also a continuationof application Ser. No. 15/946,985, now U.S. Pat. No. RE48,013, which isan application for reissue of U.S. Pat. No. 9,318,172. Said U.S. Pat.No. 9,318,172 issued from U.S. application Ser. No. 14/695,971, filedApr. 24, 2015, which was a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.14/458,800, filed Aug. 13, 2014, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,036,431on May 19, 2015, and which is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser.No. 14/273,232, filed May 8, 2014, which is abandoned and which is aContinuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/295,357, filed Nov. 14,2011, which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,750,055 on Jun. 10, 2014, andwhich claims priority under 35 U.S.C §119 to Korean Patent ApplicationNo. 10-2010-0113468 filed on Nov. 15, 2010, the disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the inventive concept relate generally to semiconductormemory devices, and more particularly to nonvolatile memory devices,read methods for the nonvolatile memory devices, and memory systemsincorporating the nonvolatile memory devices.

Semiconductor memory devices can be roughly divided into two categoriesaccording to whether they retain stored data when disconnected frompower. These categories include volatile memory devices, which losestored data when disconnected from power, and nonvolatile memorydevices, which retain stored data when disconnected from power. Examplesof volatile memory devices include dynamic random access memory (DRAM)and static random access memory (SRAM). Examples of nonvolatile memorydevices include read only memory (ROM), programmable read only memory(PROM), electrically programmable read only memory (EPROM), electricallyerasable and programmable read only memory (EEPROM), flash memory,phase-change random access memory (PRAM), magnetic random access memory(MRAM), resistive random access memory (RRAM), and ferroelectric randomaccess memory (FRAM).

Flash memory device is an especially popular type of nonvolatile memorydevice due to attractive features such as relatively high storagecapacity, low power consumption, and the ability to withstand physicalshock. In view of this continuing popularity, researchers are constantlypursuing ways to improve flash memory devices. For example, researchersare continually pursuing ways to improve the speed and accuracy of readand write operations as well as storage capacity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one embodiment of the inventive concept, a method ofreading a nonvolatile memory device comprises receiving a read command,receiving addresses, detecting a transition of a read enable signal,generating a strobe signal based on the transition of the read enablesignal, reading data corresponding to the received addresses, andoutputting the read data after the strobe signal is toggled apredetermined number of times.

According to another embodiment of the inventive concept, a nonvolatilememory device comprises a memory cell array, an address decoder thatselects a word line of the memory cell array in response to a receivedaddresses, a clock generator that generates a clock based on a readenable signal, a read and write circuit that reads data corresponding tothe received addresses from the memory cell array and transfers the readdata in response to the clock, and an input/output driver that outputs astrobe signal in response to the read enable signal and outputs the readdata transferred from the read and write circuit. The read data isoutput after the strobe signal is toggled a predetermined number oftimes.

According to still another embodiment of the inventive concept, a memorysystem comprises a nonvolatile memory device, and a controllerconfigured to control the nonvolatile memory device. The nonvolatilememory device comprises a memory cell array, an address decoder thatselects a word line of the memory cell array in response to receivedaddresses, a clock generator that generates a clock based on a readenable signal, a read and write circuit that reads data corresponding tothe received addresses from the memory cell array and transfers the readdata in response to the clock, and an input/output driver that outputs astrobe signal in response to the read enable signal and outputs the readdata transferred from the read and write circuit. The read data isoutput after the strobe signal is toggled a predetermined number oftimes.

These and other embodiments of the inventive concept can improve thereliability of a nonvolatile memory device by outputting an input/outputsignal after a strobe signal is stabilized.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings illustrate selected embodiments of the inventive concept.In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate like features.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a nonvolatile memory device according to afirst embodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a method of performing a readoperation in a nonvolatile memory device according to an embodiment ofthe inventive concept.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method of outputting read data fromthe nonvolatile memory device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment ofthe inventive concept.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a clock generator illustrated in FIG. 1according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a clock controller illustrated in FIG. 4according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a clock generating circuit illustrated inFIG. 4 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 7 is a first timing diagram for describing operations of thenonvolatile memory device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of theinventive concept.

FIG. 8 is a second timing diagram for describing operations of thenonvolatile memory device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of theinventive concept.

FIG. 9 is a third timing diagram for describing operations of thenonvolatile memory device of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of theinventive concept.

FIG. 10 is a timing diagram for describing a read operation of thenonvolatile memory device of FIG. 1 with a first latency optionaccording to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 11 is a timing diagram for describing a read operation of thenonvolatile memory device of FIG. 1 with a second latency optionaccording to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 12 is a timing diagram for describing a read operation of thenonvolatile memory device of FIG. 1 with a third latency optionaccording to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 13 is a timing diagram for describing a read operation of thenonvolatile memory device of FIG. 1 with a fourth latency optionaccording to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a first decoding unit and a seconddecoding unit of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment of the inventiveconcept.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a nonvolatile memory device according to asecond embodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method of performing a readoperation in the nonvolatile memory device of FIG. 15 according to anembodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 17 is a timing diagram for describing a read operation of thenonvolatile memory device of FIG. 15 with a latency option according toan embodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a memory system according to an embodimentof the inventive concept.

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a memory system according to anotherembodiment of the inventive concept.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram of a computing system incorporating thememory system of FIG. 19 according to an embodiment of the inventiveconcept.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the inventive concept are described below with referenceto the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are presented asteaching examples and should not be construed to limit the scope of theinventive concept.

In the description that follows, the terms first, second, third etc. areused to describe various features, but the described features should notbe limited by these terms. Rather, these terms are merely used todistinguish between different features. Thus, a first feature could betermed a second feature without departing from the teachings of theinventive concept.

Spatially relative terms such as “beneath”, “below”, “lower”, “under”,“above”, and “upper” may be used herein for ease of description todescribe feature's relationship to another feature as illustrated in thefigures. The spatially relative terms are intended to encompassdifferent orientations of the device in use or operation in addition tothe orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device inthe figures is turned over, features described as “below” or “beneath”or “under” other features would then be oriented “above” the otherfeatures. Thus, the terms “below” and “under” can encompass both anorientation of above and below. A device can be otherwise oriented(rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relativedescriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. In addition, where afeature is referred to as being “between” two features, it can be theonly feature between the two features, or one or more interveningfeatures may also be present.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the inventiveconcept. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” areintended to encompass the plural forms as well, unless the contextclearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises” and/or “comprising”specify the presence of stated features, but do not preclude thepresence or addition of one or more additional features. As used herein,the term “and/or” indicates any and all combinations of one or more ofthe associated listed items.

Where a feature is referred to as being “on”, “connected to”, “coupledto”, or “adjacent to” another feature, it can be directly on, connected,coupled, or adjacent to the other feature, or intervening features maybe present. In contrast, where a feature is referred to as being“directly on,” “directly connected to”, “directly coupled to”, or“immediately adjacent to” another feature, there are no interveningfeatures present.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by oneof ordinary skill in the art. Terms such as those defined in commonlyused dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning that isconsistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and/orthe present specification and will not be interpreted in an idealized oroverly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

The term “chip enable signal” is used to refer to a “chip enable signal”CE or an “inverted chip enable signal” /CE. Chip enable signal /CE isdefined as a signal that is activated where a chip is selected. Forexample, an activated chip enable signal /CE may have a first level, andan inactivated chip enable signal /CE may have a second level.

The term “read enable signal” is used to refer to a “read enable signal”RE and an “inverted read enable signal” /RE. Read enable signal /RE isdefined as a signal that is activated in a read operation. For example,an activated read enable signal /RE may have a level that transitionsiteratively, and an inactivated read enable signal /RE may have a fixedlevel.

Certain embodiments of the inventive concept are described below withreference to a flash memory device. However, the inventive concept isnot limited to flash memory device, and could be implemented with othertypes of memories, such as MRAM, FRAM, PRAM, ROM, PROM, EPROM, andEEPROM, to name but a few.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a nonvolatile memory device according to afirst embodiment of the inventive concept.

Referring to FIG. 1, a nonvolatile memory device 100 comprises a memorycell array 110, an address decoder 120, first through fourth read andwrite circuits 131 through 134, a clock generator 140, a combinationlogic 150, a de-multiplexer 160, an input/output driver 170, a programcircuit 180, and control logic 190.

Memory cell array 110 comprises first through fourth sub-arrays 111through 114, each of which comprises a plurality of memory cells. Theplurality of memory cells are connected with address decoder 120 viaword lines WL and with first through fourth read and write circuits 131through 134 via bit lines BL.

Memory cell array 110 is not limited to being formed of first throughfourth sub-arrays 111 through 114. For example, it is possible to formmemory cell array 110 with one or more sub-arrays. The memory cells canbe arranged in a two-dimensional (2D) array structure or athree-dimensional (3D) array structure. An example of a 3D arraystructure is disclosed in U.S. Publication No. 2008-0023747, entitled“SEMICONDUCTOR MEMORY DEVICE WITH MEMORY CELLS ON MULTIPLE LAYERS”, andU.S. Publication No. 2008-0084729, entitled “SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE WITHTHREE-DIMENSIONAL ARRAY STRUCTURE”, the respective disclosures of whichare hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Address decoder 120 is connected with first through fourth sub-arrays111 through 114 via word lines WL. Address decoder 120 receives anaddress ADDR and decodes a row address and a column address from thereceived address ADDR. Address decoder 120 selects a word line using thedecoded row address, and transfers a decoded column address DCA to firstthrough fourth read and write circuits 131 through 134. Address decoder120 can comprise, for instance, a row decoder, a column decoder, or anaddress buffer.

First through fourth read and write circuits 131 through 134 areconnected to first through fourth sub-arrays 111 through 114 via bitlines BL. More specifically, first read and write circuit 131 isconnected to first sub-array 111, second read and write circuit 132 isconnected to second sub-array 112, third read and write circuit 133 isconnected to third sub-array 133, and fourth read and write circuit 134is connected to fourth sub-array 114.

First through fourth read and write circuits 131 through 134 areconnected with de-multiplexer 160 via first and second data paths DATA1and DATA2. First and second read and write circuits 131 and 132 areconnected to de-multiplexer 160 via first data path DATA1, and third andfourth read and write circuits 133 and 134 are connected tode-multiplexer 160 via second data path DATA2.

First and second read and write circuits 131 and 132 are configured toread data corresponding to address ADDR from first and second sub-arrays111 and 112, and then transfer the read data to de-multiplexer 160 inresponse to a first clock CLK1. First and second read and write circuits131 and 132 typically comprise data latches (not shown) connected withfirst data path DATA1, and they are configured to store the read data inthe data latches (not shown). The data latches (not shown) areconfigured to store data in response to first clock CLK1.

Third and fourth read and write circuits 133 and 134 are configured toread data corresponding to address ADDR from third and fourth sub-arrays113 and 114, and then transfer the read data to de-multiplexer 160 inresponse to a second clock CLK2. Third and fourth read and writecircuits 133 and 134 typically comprise data latches (not shown)connected with second data path DATA2, and they are configured to storethe read data in the data latches (not shown). The data latches (notshown) are configured to store data in response to second clock CLK2.

First through fourth read and write circuits 131 through 134 can writedata in first through fourth sub-arrays 111 through 114, and they canalso read data from first through fourth sub-arrays 111 through 114 andthen write the read data back into first through fourth sub-arrays 111through 114 in a copy-back operation.

Clock generator 140 receives a chip enable signal /CE and a read enablesignal /RE from an external device, and it receives a latency option LOfrom program circuit 180. Clock generator 140 generates first clock CLK1and second clock CLK2 based on chip enable signal /CE, read enablesignal /RE, and latency option LO.

First clock CLK1 is sent to first and second read and write circuits 131and 132 and combination logic 150. Second clock CLK2 is sent to thirdand fourth read and write circuits 133 and 134.

Second clock CLK2 is an inverted version of first clock CLK1. First andsecond clocks CLK1 and CLK2 have a period that is longer than a durationfor which read enable signal /RE is toggled. For example, first andsecond clocks CLK1 and CLK2 can have a period twice as long as theduration for which read enable signal /RE is toggled.

Combination logic 150 receives read enable signal /RE from an externaldevice, and it receives first clock CLK1 from clock generator 140.Combination logic 150 generates first through fourth selection signalsSEL1 through SEL4 and a strobe ready signal IN_DQS based on read enablesignal /RE and first clock CLK1. Combination logic 150 receives latencyoption LO from program circuit 180 and generates first through fourthselection signals SEL1 through SEL4 based on latency option LO.

Combination logic 150 alternately inactivates or activates all of firstthrough fourth selection signals SEL1 through SEL4. Combination logic150 generates strobe ready signal IN_DQS with the same waveform as readenable signal /RE.

De-multiplexer 160 is connected with first through fourth read and writecircuits 131 through 134 via first and second data paths DATA1 andDATA2. De-multiplexer 160 receives first through fourth selectionsignals SEL1 through SEL4 from combination logic 150, and it connectsany one of first through fourth read and write circuits 131 through 134to input/output driver 170 in response to first through fourth selectionsignals SEL1 through SEL4. More specifically, de-multiplexer 160connects first read and write circuit 131 to input/output circuit 170 inresponse to first selection signal SEL1, it connects second read andwrite circuit 132 to input/output circuit 170 in response to secondselection signal SEL2, it connects third read and write circuit 133 toinput/output circuit 170 in response to third selection signal SEL3, andit connects fourth read and write circuit 134 to input/output circuit170 in response to fourth selection signal SEL4.

Input/output driver 170 exchanges a strobe signal DQS and aninput/output signal DQ with the external device, and it exchanges datawith de-multiplexer 160. In a write operation, input/output driver 170transfers input/output signal DQ received from the external device tofirst through fourth read and write circuits 131 through 134 viade-multiplexer 160. In a read operation, input/output driver 170 outputsdata received via de-multiplexer 160 from first through fourth readwrite circuits 131 through 134 to the external device as input/outputsignal DQ.

In a read operation, input/output driver 170 receives strobe readysignal IN_DQS from combination logic 150. Input/output driver 170outputs strobe signal DQS to the external device in response to strobeready signal IN_DQS. Strobe signal DQS has the same waveform as strobeready signal IN_DQS and is a signal delayed by a predetermined time.

Program circuit 180 stores latency option LO and provides latency optionLO to clock generator 140. Latency option LO comprises information forcontrolling the timing of first and second clocks CLK1 and CLK2.Typically, latency option LO determines the timing of first and secondclocks CLK1 and CLK2 based on strobe signal DQS or read enable signal/RE. For example, latency option LO can determine to generate first andsecond clocks CLK1 and CLK2 beginning a predetermined number of cyclesafter activation of read enable signal /RE.

Program circuit 180 comprises a circuit capable of storing data. Forexample, program circuit 180 may be programmed a mode register set (MRS)or a feature set command Program circuit 180 typically comprises atleast one of a layer fuse, an electrical fuse, and nonvolatile memorycells.

Control logic 190 controls operations of nonvolatile memory device 100.For example, control logic 190 can control operations of elements 111through 114, 120, 131 through 134, and 140 through 180. Control logic190 operates in response to a control signal CTRL received from theexternal device. Although not illustrated in FIG. 1, control logic 190can further receive chip enable signal /CE and read enable signal /RE.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a method of performing a readoperation in nonvolatile memory device 100 according to an embodiment ofthe inventive concept. In the description that follows, example methodsteps will be indicated by parentheses to distinguish them from examplesystem or device features.

Referring to FIG. 2, nonvolatile memory device 100 receives a readcommand (S110). For example, the read command can be sent to controllogic 190 in the form of control signal CTRL. Then, in response to thereceived read command, control logic 190 can control first throughfourth sub-arrays 111 through 114, an address decoder 120, first throughfourth read and write circuits 131 through 134, a clock generator 140,combination logic 150, a de-multiplexer 160, an input/output driver 170,and a program circuit 180.

Next, nonvolatile memory device 100 receives an address ADDR (S120).Address ADDR is sent to address decoder 120, which decodes the receivedaddress ADDR. Although steps S110 and S120 are shown in sequence, thesesteps can be performed in a reverse order or simultaneously.Additionally, multiple read commands and addresses can be received invarious alternative sequences.

Next, a strobe signal DQS is generated based on transitions of a readenable signal /RE (S130). For example, combination logic 150 cangenerate a strobe ready signal IN_DQS, which has the same waveform as atoggled read enable signal /RE and is delayed by a predetermined time,in response to the toggled read enable signal DQS. In some examples,strobe ready signal IN_DQS is delayed by half a period of read enablesignal /RE. In other examples, strobe ready signal IN_DQS issynchronized with read enable signal /RE. Input/output driver 170generates strobe signal DQS based on strobe ready signal IN_DQS.

Thereafter, nonvolatile memory device 100 outputs read data from alocation corresponding to address ADDR (S140). For example, the firstthrough fourth read and write circuits 131 through 134 read datacorresponding to the received address ADDR from first through fourthsub-arrays 111 through 114.

After strobe signal DQS transitions a predetermined number of times, theread data is transferred to an external device (S150). For example,first through fourth read and write circuits 131 through 134 cantransfer the read data to de-multiplexer 160 after strobe signal DQStransitions a predetermined number of times. De-multiplexer 160selectively connects first through fourth read and write circuits 131through 134 to input/output driver 170. Input/output driver 170 outputsdata transferred from first through fourth read and write circuits 131through 134 as an input/output signal DQ.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method of outputting read data fromnonvolatile memory device 100 according to an embodiment of theinventive concept. The method of FIG. 3 corresponds to step S150 of FIG.2.

Referring to FIG. 3, a delay clock is generated based on a toggled readenable signal /RE and latency option LO (S210). Clock generator 140generates first and second clocks CLK1 and CLK2 after a transition ofread enable signal /RE is detected and read enable signal /RE is toggleda number of times corresponding to latency option LO. First and secondclocks CLK1 and CLK2 can be synchronized with any one of a rising edgeand a falling edge of a toggled read enable signal /RE.

Next, data corresponding to a received column address starts to beoutput according to the delayed clock (S220). That is, first throughfourth read and write circuits 131 through 134 transfer read data tode-multiplexer 160 in response to first and second clocks CLK1 and CLK2.De-multiplexer 160 sends data provided from first through fourth readand write circuits 131 through 134 to input/output driver 170. That is,data read by first through fourth read and write circuits 131 through134 can be provided to the external device in response to first andsecond clocks CLK1 and CLK2 which are delayed by a predetermined timebased on strobe signal DQS. As a result, read data is provided to theexternal device after a predetermined clock cycle based on strobe signalDQS.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of clock generator 140 of FIG. 1 according toan embodiment of the inventive concept.

Referring to FIG. 4, clock generator 140 comprises a clock controller141 and a clock generating circuit 143. Clock controller 141 receiveschip enable signal /CE and read enable signal /RE and generates risingmask signals MASK_R and falling mask signals MASK_F in response to chipenable signal /CE and read enable signal /RE.

Rising mask signals MASK_R are activated in synchronization with risingedges of a toggled read enable signal /RE. For example, rising masksignals MASK_R can be activated in synchronization with first throughm-th rising edges of the toggled read enable signal /RE. One or morerising mask signals MASK_R can also remain in an active state for alonger duration.

Falling mask signals MASK_F are activated in synchronization withfalling edges of toggled read enable signal /RE. For example, fallingmask signals MASK_F can be activated in synchronization with firstthrough m-th falling edges of toggled read enable signal /RE. One ormore falling mask signals MASK_F can also remain in an active state fora longer duration.

Clock generating circuit 143 receives latency option LO, read enablesignal /RE, rising mask signals MASK_R, and falling mask signals MASK_F.Clock generating circuit 143 generates first clock CLK1 and second clockCLK2 in response to read enable signal /RE being toggled. The timing offirst clock CLK1 is determined in response to one of the rising andfalling mask signals MASK_R and MASK_F. Second clock CLK2 is an invertedversion of first clock CLK1.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of clock controller 141 illustrated in FIG. 4according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

Referring to FIG. 5, clock controller 141 comprises rising flip-flopsDFF_R1 through DFF_Rm and falling flip-flops DFF_F1 through DFF_Fm.Rising flip-flops DFF_R1 through DFF_Rm are connected in series. Inparticular, an output node Q of the (k−1)-th rising flip-flop DFF_R(k−1)(1<k<m+1) is connected with an input node D of the k-th rising flip-flopDFF_Rk.

A signal on output node Q of the k-th rising flip-flop DFF_Rk isprovided as the (k+1)-th rising mask signal MASK_R(k+1). An input node Dof the first rising flip-flop DFF_R1 is connected with a power supplyvoltage VCC. A signal on input node D of the rising flip-flop DFF_R1 isprovided as the first rising mask signal MASK_R1. That is, a signal oninput node D of the first rising flip-flop DFF_R1 and signals on outputnodes Q of the rising flip-flops DFF_R1 through DFF_Rm are provided asthe first to n-th rising mask signals MASK_R1 through MASK_Rn (n>m).

Rising flip-flops DFF_R1 through DFF_Rm operate responsive to readenable signal /RE. Rising flip-flops DFF_R1 through DFF_Rm operate insynchronization with a rising edge of read enable signal /RE beingtoggled. At a first rising edge of the toggled read enable signal /RE, asignal on an input node D of first rising flip-flop DFF_R1 istransferred to an output node Q thereof. That is, power supply voltageVCC is sent to output node Q of first rising flip-flop DFF_R1 at thefirst rising edge of the toggled read enable signal /RE.

At a second rising edge of the toggled read enable signal /RE, a signalon an input node D of second rising flip-flop DFF_R2 is transferred toan output node Q thereof. That is, power supply voltage VCC is sent tooutput node Q of second

rising flip-flop DFF_R2 at the second rising edge of the toggled readenable signal /RE.

Likewise, at a k-th rising edge of the toggled read enable signal /RE,power supply voltage VCC is sent to output node Q of k-th risingflip-flop DFF_Rk. That is, first rising mask signal MASK_R1 is always inan active state, and k-th rising mask signal MASK_Rk is activated at a(k+1)-th rising edge of read enable signal /RE being toggled.

Rising flop-flops DFF_R1 through DFF_Rm are reset by a reset signalnRST, which is activated in response to chip enable signal /CE. Forexample, reset signal nRST can be activated simultaneously where chipenable signal /CE is activated. Alternatively, reset signal nRST can beactivated after chip enable signal /CE is activated. That is, where afollowing read operation is performed after a read operation is ended,rising mask signals MASK_R2 through MASK_Rn are inactivated. Resetsignal nRST is generated by clock controller 141 in response to chipenable signal /CE.

Falling flip-flops DFF_F1 through DFF_Fm are connected in series. Anoutput node Q of (k−1)-th falling flip-flop DFF_F(k−1) is connected withan input node D of k-th falling flip-flop DFF_Fk.

Falling flip-flops DFF_F1 through DFF_Fm are configured to operateresponsive to an inverted version of read enable signal /RE. Fallingflip-flops DFF_F1 through DFF_Fm typically operate in synchronizationwith a falling edge of the toggled read enable signal /RE.

Falling flip-flops DFF_F1 through DFF_Fm operate the same as risingflip-flops DFF_R1 through DFF_Rm except that they operate in response toan inverted version of read enable signal /RE. That is, first fallingmask signal MASK_F1 is always in an active state. The k-th falling masksignal MASK_Fk is activated in synchronization with (k−1)-th fallingedge of the toggled read enable signal /RE. Where a following readoperation is performed after a read operation is ended, falling masksignals MASK_F2 to MASK_Fn are inactivated.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of clock generating circuit 143 illustrated inFIG. 4 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

Referring to FIG. 6, clock generating circuit 143 comprises firstthrough third decoding units DU1 through DU3, first and second decoders145 and 147, and first and second flip-flops 146 and 148. In thedescription that follows, clocks generated according to first throughn-th rising mask signals MASK_R1 through MASK_Rn are called firstthrough n-th rising clocks CLK_R1 through CLK_Rn, and clocks generatedaccording to first through n-th falling mask signals MASK_F1 throughMASK_Fn are called first through n-th falling clocks CLK_F1 throughCLK_Fn.

First decoding unit DU1 receives first through n-th rising mask signalsMASK_R1 through MASK_Rn. First decoding unit DU1 selects one of firstthrough n-th rising mask signals MASK_R1 through MASK_Rn in response tolatency option LO. A selected mask signal is transferred to firstdecoder 145 as rising mask signal MASK_R.

Second decoding unit DU2 receives first through n-th falling masksignals MASK_F1 through MASK_Fn. Second decoding unit DU2 selects one ofthe first through n-th falling mask signals MASK_F1 through MASK_Fn inresponse to latency option LO. A selected mask signal is transferred tosecond decoder 147 as a falling mask signal MASK_F.

First decoder 145 operates in response to rising mask signal MASK_R.First decoder 145 can operate in response to any one of rising masksignals MASK_R1 through MASK_Rn. Where rising mask signal MASK_R isactivated, first decoder 145 connects an output node Q of firstflip-flop 146 with an input node D thereof. Where rising mask signalMASK_R is inactivated, first decoder 145 connects an inverted outputnode nQ of first flip-flop 146 with input node D thereof.

Input node D of first flip-flop 146 is connected to first decoder 145,and it operates in response to read enable signal /RE. Output nodes Qand nQ of first flip-flop 146 are connected with first decoder 145. Asignal on output node Q of first flip-flop 146 is used as rising clockCLK_R.

Second decoder 147 operates in response to falling mask signal MASK_F.Second decoder 147 can operate in response to any one of falling masksignals MASK_F1 through MASK_Fn. Where falling mask signal MASK_F isactivated, second decoder 147 connects an output node Q of secondflip-flop 148 with an input node D thereof. Where falling mask signalMASK_F is inactivated, second decoder 147 connects an inverted outputnode nQ of second flip-flop 148 with input node D thereof.

Input node D of second flip-flop 148 is connected to second decoder 147,and it operates in response to an inverted version of read enable signal/RE. Output nodes Q and nQ of second flip-flop 148 are connected withsecond decoder 147. A signal on output node Q of second flip-flop 148 isused as a falling clock CLK_F.

Third decoding unit DU3 receives rising clock CLK_R and falling clockCLK_F. Third decoding unit DU3 selects any one of rising and fallingclocks CLK_R and CLK_F in response to latency option LO. The selectedclock is used as first clock CLK1. As illustrated in FIG. 4, secondclock CLK2 is generated by inverting first clock CLK1 using an inverter.

FIG. 7 is a first timing diagram for describing operations ofnonvolatile memory device 100 according to an embodiment of theinventive concept. In the description that follows, operations forgenerating strobe signal DQS will be more fully described with referenceto FIGS. 1 and 3 through 7.

Referring to FIG. 7, at a time t2, chip enable signal /CE is activatedto select nonvolatile memory device 100, and reset signal nRST isgenerated in response to the activation of chip enable signal /CE.Consequently, at time t2, rising and falling flip-flops DFF_R1 throughDFF_Rm and DFF_F1 through DFF_Rm of clock controller 141 are reset byreset signal nRST.

Next, at a time t4, read enable signal /RE starts to be toggled. Thatis, at time t4, a transition of read enable signal /RE is detected.Combination logic 150 generates strobe ready signal IN_DQS with the samewaveform as read enable signal /RE but delayed by a predetermined timeon the basis of read enable signal /RE. Input/output driver 170 respondsto strobe ready signal IN_DQS to generate a strobe signal DQS with thesame waveform as strobe ready signal IN_DQS. Accordingly, at time t4,input/output driver 170 outputs strobe signal DQS being toggled.

FIG. 8 is a second timing diagram for describing operations ofnonvolatile memory device 100 according to an embodiment of theinventive concept.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3 to 8, read enable signal /RE is toggled fromtime t4. A first rising mask signal MASK_R1 is output from a clockcontroller 141 with a high level. Accordingly, where first rising masksignal MASK_R1 is provided to first decoder 145 via first decoding unitDU1, an input node D of first flip-flop 146 is electrically connectedwith an inverted output node nQ. Initially, a signal on input node D offirst flip-flop 146 is at a low level, a signal on an output node Qthereof is at the low level, and a signal on an inverted node nQ thereofis at the high level.

Read enable signal /RE transitions from the low level to the high levelat time T4, and a high-level signal on inverted output node nQ of firstflip-flop 146 is provided to input node D thereof. At this time, asignal on output node Q of first flip-flop 146 transitions from the lowlevel to the high level. A signal on inverted output node nQ of firstflip-flop 146 transitions to the low level.

At time t6, read enable signal /RE transitions from the low level to thehigh level, and a low-level signal on the inverted output node nQ offirst flip-flop 146 is provided to input node D of first flip-flop 146.At this time, a signal on output node Q of first flip-flop 146transitions to the low level. A signal on the inverted output node nQ offirst flip-flop 146 transitions from the low level to the high level.That is, first rising clock CLK_R1 is generated in synchronization witha first rising edge of read enable signal /RE.

Referring to clock controller 141, second rising mask signal MASK_R2 isactivated in synchronization with a first rising edge of read enablesignal /RE. That is, where second rising mask signal MASK_R2 is providedto first decoder 145 via first decoding unit DU1, first decoder 145connects the inverted output node nQ of first flip-flop 146 with inputnode D thereof in synchronization with the first rising edge of readenable signal /RE.

At time t6, at a second rising edge of read enable signal /RE, ahigh-level signal of the inverted output node nQ of first flip-flop 146is provided to input node D thereof. At this time, a signal on outputnode Q of first flip-flop 146 transitions to the high level. A signal onthe inverted output node nQ of first flip-flop 146 transitions to thelow level.

At time t8, at a third rising edge of read enable signal /RE, alow-level signal of the inverted output node nQ of first flip-flop 146is provided to input node D thereof. At this time, a signal on outputnode Q of first flip-flop 146 transitions to the low level, and a signalon the inverted output node nQ of first flip-flop 146 transitions to thehigh level. That is, second rising clock CLK_R2 is generated insynchronization with the third rising edge of read enable signal /RE.

Referring to clock controller 141, the k-th rising mask signal MASK_Rkis provided to first decoder 145 via first decoding unit DU1, a k-thrising clock CLK_Rk is generated. The k-th rising clock CLK_Rk isgenerated in synchronization with a k-th rising edge of read enablesignal /RE.

FIG. 9 is a third timing diagram for describing operations ofnonvolatile memory device 100 according to an embodiment of theinventive concept.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3 through 9, read enable signal /RE is toggledstarting at time t4. A first falling mask signal MASK_F1 at the highlevel is output from clock controller 141. That is, where first fallingmask signal MASK_F1 is provided to second decoder 147 via a seconddecoding unit DU2, an input node D of second flip-flop 148 iselectrically connected with an inverted output node nQ thereof.

Where read enable signal /RE transitions from the high level to the lowlevel at time t5, a high-level signal on the inverted output node nQ ofsecond flip-flop 148 is provided to input node D thereof. At this time,a signal on output node Q of second flip-flop 148 transitions from thelow level to the high level. A signal on the inverted output node nQ ofsecond flip-flop 148 transitions to the low level.

At time t7, where read enable signal /RE transitions from the high levelto the low level, a low-level signal on the inverted output node nQ ofsecond flip-flop 148 is provided to input node D of second flip-flop148. At this time, a signal on output node Q of second flip-flop 148transitions to the low level. A signal on the inverted output node nQ ofsecond flip-flop 148 transitions from the low level to the high level.That is, first falling clock CLK_F1 is generated in synchronization witha first falling edge of read enable signal /RE.

Referring to clock controller 141, second falling mask signal MASK_F2 isactivated in synchronization with a first rising edge of read enablesignal /RE. That is, where second rising mask signal MASK_F2 is providedto second decoder 147 via second decoding unit DU2, second decoder 147connects the inverted output node nQ of second flip-flop 148 with inputnode D thereof in synchronization with the first rising edge of readenable signal /RE.

At time t7, at a second falling edge of read enable signal /RE, ahigh-level signal of the inverted output node nQ of second flip-flop 148is provided to input node D thereof. At this time, a signal on outputnode Q of second flip-flop 148 transitions to the high level. A signalon the inverted output node nQ of second flip-flop 148 transitions tothe low level.

At time t9, at a third falling edge of read enable signal /RE, alow-level signal of the inverted output node nQ of second flip-flop 148is provided to input node D thereof. At this time, a signal on outputnode Q of second flip-flop 148 transitions to the low level, and asignal on the inverted output node nQ of second flip-flop 148transitions to the high level. That is, second falling clock CLK_F2 isgenerated in synchronization with the third falling edge of read enablesignal /RE.

Referring to clock controller 141, the k-th falling mask signal MASK_Fkis provided to second decoder 147 via second decoding unit DU2, and ak-th falling clock CLK_Fk is generated. The k-th falling clock CLK_Fk isgenerated in synchronization with a k-th falling edge of read enablesignal /RE. Accordingly, clock generating circuit 140 responds tolatency option LO to generate k-th rising clock CLK_Rk synchronized withthe k-th rising edge of read enable signal /RE and k-th falling clockCLK_Fk synchronized with the k-th falling edge of read enable signal/RE. Clock generator 140 outputs as first clock CLK1 any one of the k-thrising and falling clocks CLK_Rk and CLK_Fk according to latency optionLO. Clock generator 140 generates an inverted version of first clockCLK1 as second clock CLK2.

FIG. 10 is a timing diagram for describing a read operation ofnonvolatile memory device 100 in which latency option LO is set to delaya clock signal by zero cycles (LO=0) after activation of a reset signalaccording to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3 to 10, read enable signal /RE starts to betoggled from time t4. Input/output driver 170 generates strobe signalDQS in response to read enable signal /RE. Strobe signal DQS has thesame waveform as read enable signal /RE and is delayed by apredetermined time on the basis of read enable signal /RE. Asillustrated in FIG. 10, strobe signal DQS starts to be toggled at timet5 after read enable signal /RE is toggled.

It is assumed that a first rising clock CLK_R1 is selected according tolatency option LO. Clock generator 140 generates first clock CLK1 andsecond clock CLK2 in response to latency option LO and the toggled readenable signal /RE. First and second clocks CLK1 and CLK2 are generatedin synchronization with a first rising edge of read enable signal /RE.

Second clock CLK2 is an inverted version of first clock CLK1. Firstclock CLK1 is supplied to first and second read and write circuits 131and 132, and second clock CLK2 is supplied to third and fourth read andwrite circuits 133 and 134.

First and second read and write circuits 131 and 132 read datacorresponding to a received address ADDR from first and secondsub-arrays 111 and 112. First and second read and write circuits 131 and132 transfer the read data to de-multiplexer 160 in synchronization withfirst clock CLK1. For example, where first clock CLK1 is at the highlevel, first and second read and write circuits 131 and 132 send theread data to de-multiplexer 160.

Third and fourth read and write circuits 133 and 134 read datacorresponding to the received address ADDR from third and fourthsub-arrays 113 and 114, and they transfer the read data tode-multiplexer 160 in synchronization with second clock CLK2. Forexample, where second clock CLK2 is at the high level, third and fourthread and write circuits 133 and 134 send the read data to de-multiplexer160.

Combination logic 150 activates selection signals SEL1 through SEL4 inresponse to read enable signal /RE and first clock CLK1. Where firstclock CLK1 is generated, selection signals SEL1 through SEL4 aregenerated sequentially and iteratively in synchronization with risingand falling edges of read enable signal /RE. For example, combinationlogic 150 can generate first selection signal SEL1 by multiplying strobeready signal IN_DQS, which has the same phase as strobe signal DQS,obtained by delaying read enable signal /RE, with first clock CLK1.Second through fourth selection signals SEL2 through SEL4 are generatedby delaying first selection signal SEL1 by half a clock period.

De-multiplexer 160 electrically connects first through fourth read andwrite circuits 131 through 134 to input/output driver 170 in response tofirst through fourth selection signals SEL1 through SEL4. That is, readdata corresponding to an activated one of first through fourth selectionsignals SEL1 through SEL4 is output as an input/output signal DQ viainput/output driver 170.

First, fifth and ninth data D1, D5, and D9 transferred via a first datapath DATA1 can be data transferred from first read and write circuit131. Second, sixth, and tenth data D2, D6, and D10 can be datatransferred from second read and write circuit 132. Third, seventh, andeleventh data D3, D7, and D11 transferred via a second data path DATA2can be data transferred from third read and write circuit 133. Fourth,eighth, and twelfth data D4, D8, and D12 can be data transferred fromthe fourth read and write circuit 134. First through twelfth data D1through D12 are provided as input/output signal DQ sequentiallyaccording to first through fourth selection signals SEL1 through SEL4.Although certain embodiments of nonvolatile memory device 100 have adual data rate (DDR) interface that outputs data at rising and fallingedges of strobe signal DQS, the inventive concept is not limited to thistype of interface.

As illustrated in FIG. 10, first through fourth read and write circuits131 through 134 transfer read data when strobe signal DQS starts to betoggled. The transferred data is provided as input/output signal DQ viainput/output driver 170.

FIG. 11 is a timing diagram for describing a read operation ofnonvolatile memory device 100 in which latency option LO is set to delaya clock signal by one half of a cycle (LO=0.5) after activation of areset signal according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 3 through 9, and 11, read enable signal /RE startsto be toggled from time t4, and strobe signal DQS starts to be toggledat time t5.

It is assumed that a first falling clock CLK_R1 is selected according tolatency option LO. Clock generator 140 generates first clock CLK1 andsecond clock CLK2 in response to latency option LO and the toggled readenable signal /RE. First and second clocks CLK1 and CLK2 are generatedin synchronization with a first falling edge of read enable signal /RE.

First and second read and write circuits 131 and 132 read datacorresponding to a received address ADDR, and they transfer the readdata to de-multiplexer 160 in synchronization with first clock CLK1.Third and fourth read and write circuits 133 and 134 read datacorresponding to the received address ADDR and transfer the read data tode-multiplexer 160 in synchronization with second clock CLK2.

First, fifth and ninth data D1, D5, and D9 transferred via first datapath DATA1 can be data transferred from first read and write circuit131. Second, sixth, and tenth data D2, D6, and D10 can be datatransferred from second read and write circuit 132. Third, seventh, andeleventh data D3, D7, and D11 transferred via second data path DATA2 canbe data transferred from third read and write circuit 133. Fourth andeighth data D4 and D8 can be data transferred from fourth read and writecircuit 134. First through eleventh data D1 through D11 are provided asinput/output signal DQ sequentially according to first through fourthselection signals SEL1 through SEL4.

Herein, first through fourth selection signals SEL1 through SEL4 aregenerated based on a signal obtained by multiplying read enable signal/RE with first clock CLK1 according to latency option LO. For example,first selection signal SEL1 can be generated by multiplying read enablesignal /RE with first clock CLK1, and second through fourth selectionsignals SEL2 through SEL4 can be generated by delaying first selectionsignal SEL1 by half a clock period.

As illustrated in FIG. 11, first through fourth read and write circuits131 through 134 transfer read data after strobe signal DQS is toggledonce. First through fourth read and write circuits 131 through 134transfer read data after half a period of strobe signal DQS has passed.More specifically, first through fourth read and write circuits 131through 134 transfer read data in synchronization with a first fallingedge of strobe signal DQS. The transferred data is output asinput/output signal DQ via input/output driver 170.

FIG. 12 is a timing diagram for describing a read operation ofnonvolatile memory device 100 in which latency option LO is set to delaya clock signal by one cycle (LO=1) after activation of a reset signalaccording to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 3 through 9, and 12, read enable signal /RE startsto be toggled from time t4, and strobe signal DQS starts to be toggledat time t5.

It is assumed that a second rising clock CLK_R2 is selected according tolatency option LO. Clock generator 140 generates first clock CLK1 andsecond clock CLK2 in response to latency option LO and the toggled readenable signal /RE. First and second clocks CLK1 and CLK2 are generatedin synchronization with a second rising edge of read enable signal /RE.

First and second read and write circuits 131 and 132 read datacorresponding to a received address ADDR, and they transfer the readdata to de-multiplexer 160 in synchronization with first clock CLK1.Third and fourth read and write circuits 133 and 134 read datacorresponding to the received address ADDR and transfer the read data tode-multiplexer 160 in synchronization with second clock CLK2.

First, fifth and ninth data D1, D5, and D9 transferred via first datapath DATA1 can be data transferred from first read and write circuit131. Second, sixth, and tenth data D2, D6, and D10 can be datatransferred from the second read and write circuit 132. Third andseventh data D3 and D7 transferred via second data path DATA2 can bedata transferred from third read and write circuit 133. Fourth andeighth data D4 and D8 can be data transferred from fourth read and writecircuit 134. First through tenth data D1 through D10 are provided asinput/output signal DQ sequentially according to first through fourthselection signals SEL1 through SEL4.

First through fourth selection signals SEL1 through SEL4 are generatedbased on a signal obtained by multiplying first clock CLK1 with a strobeready signal IN_DQS according to latency option LO. Strobe ready signalIN_DQS has the same phase as strobe signal DQS and is obtained bydelaying read enable signal /RE by half a cycle. For example, firstselection signal SEL1 is generated by multiplying strobe ready signalIN_DQS with first clock CLK1. Second through fourth selection signalsSEL2 through SEL4 are generated by delaying first selection signal SEL1by half a clock period.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, first through fourth read and write circuits131 through 134 transfer read data after strobe ready signal IN_DQS istoggled twice. First through fourth read and write circuits 131 through134 transfer read data after one period of strobe signal DQS isgenerated. In particular, first through fourth read and write circuits131 through 134 transfer read data in synchronization with a secondrising edge of strobe signal DQS. The transferred data is output asinput/output signal DQ via input/output driver 170.

FIG. 13 is a timing diagram for describing a read operation ofnonvolatile memory device 100 in which latency option LO is set to delaya clock signal by one and a half cycles (LO=1.5) after activation of areset signal according to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 3 through 9, and 13, a read enable signal /REstarts to be toggled from time t4, and strobe signal DQS starts to betoggled at time t5.

It is assumed that a second falling clock CLK_F2 is selected accordingto latency option LO. Clock generator 140 generates first clock CLK1 andsecond clock CLK2 in response to latency option LO and the toggled readenable signal /RE. First and second clocks CLK1 and CLK2 are generatedin synchronization with a second rising edge of read enable signal /RE.

First and second read and write circuits 131 and 132 read datacorresponding to a received address ADDR, and they transfer the readdata to de-multiplexer 160 in synchronization with first clock CLK1.Third and fourth read and write circuits 133 and 134 read datacorresponding to the received address ADDR and transfer the read data tode-multiplexer 160 in synchronization with second clock CLK2.

First, fifth and ninth data D1, D5, and D9 transferred via first datapath DATA1 can be data transferred from first read and write circuit131. Second and sixth data D2 and D6 can be data transferred from secondread and write circuit 132. Third and seventh data D3 and D7 transferredvia second data path DATA2 can be data transferred from third read andwrite circuit 133. Fourth and eighth data D4 and D8 can be datatransferred from fourth read and write circuit 134. First through ninthdata D1 through D9 are provided as input/output signal DQ sequentiallyaccording to first through fourth selection signals SEL1 through SEL4.

First through fourth selection signals SEL1 through SEL4 are generatedbased on a signal obtained by multiplying first clock CLK1 with readenable signal /RE according to latency option LO. For example, firstselection signal SEL1 can be generated by multiplying read enable signal/RE with first clock CLK1. Second through fourth selection signals SEL2through SEL4 can be generated by delaying first selection signal SEL1 byhalf a clock period.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, first through fourth read and write circuits131 through 134 transfer read data after strobe signal DQS is toggledthree times. First through fourth read and write circuits 131 through134 transfer read data after a 1.5 periods of strobe signal DQS havepassed. In particular, first through fourth read and write circuits 131through 134 transfer read data in synchronization with a second fallingedge of strobe signal DQS. The transferred data is output asinput/output signal DQ via input/output driver 170.

As described above, one of rising clocks CLK_R1 through CLK_Rn andfalling clocks CLK_F1 through CLK_Fn is selected according to latencyoption LO. First clock CLK1 and a second clock CLK2 are generated fromthe selected clock. First and second clocks CLK1 and CLK2 are delayed onthe basis of strobe signal DQS according to latency option LO. Read datais output in synchronization with first and second clocks CLK1 and CLK2.Accordingly, nonvolatile memory device 100 outputs input/output signalDQ after strobe signal DQS is toggled a predetermined number of times.

Strobe signal DQS starts to be toggled from a fixed level. Attransitions, strobe signal DQS may be distorted. As the frequency ofstrobe signal DQS increases, there is an increased probability thatstrobe signal DQS distortion will occur. Accordingly, in certainembodiments of the inventive concept, input/output signal DQ is outputafter strobe signal DQS is toggled a predetermined number of times. Thatis, input/output signal DQ is output after strobe signal DQS isstabilized. This can improve the reliability of nonvolatile memorydevice 100.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of first and second decoding units DU1 andDU2 of FIG. 6 according to an embodiment of the inventive concept. Inthe example of FIG. 14, first decoding unit DU1 receives first throughfifth rising mask signals MASK_R1 through MASK_R5, and second decodingunit DU2 receives first to fifth falling mask signals MASK_F1 throughMASK_F5. However, in alternative embodiments, the number of mask signalsapplied to first and second decoding units DU1 and DU2 can vary.

Referring to FIG. 14, first decoding unit DU1 comprises first throughthird decoders D1 through D3. First decoder D1 receives first throughfourth mask signals MASK_R1 through MASK_R4, and second decoder D2receives second through fifth mask signals MASK_R2 through MASK_R5.First decoder D1 selects one of first through fourth mask signalsMASK_R1 through MASK_R4 in response to latency option LO. Second decoderD2 selects one of second through fifth mask signals in response tolatency option LO. First and second decoders D1 and D2 are configured toobtain an offset value for selecting one of four inputs from latencyoption LO. First and second decoders D1 and D2 each transfer one of theinputs as an output signal according to an obtained offset value.

Where an offset value of latency option LO indicates “0 clock cycles”(LO=0), first decoder D1 outputs the first rising mask signal MASK_R1,and second decoder D2 outputs second rising mask signal MASK_R2. Wherean offset value of latency option LO indicates “0.5 clock cycles”(LO=0.5), first decoder D1 outputs second rising mask signal MASK_R2,and second decoder D2 outputs third rising mask signal MASK_R3. Where anoffset value of latency option LO indicates “0.5 k clock cycles”, firstdecoder D1 selects a k-th input as its output, and second decoder D2selects a k-th input as its output.

Third decoder D3 receives output signals of first and second decoders D1and D2. Third decoder D3 responds to latency option LO to output one ofoutput signals of first and second decoders D1 and D2 as a rising masksignal MASK_R.

Second decoding unit DU2 comprises fourth through sixth decoders D4through D6. Second decoding unit DU2 outputs a falling mask signalMASK_F in response to first through fifth falling mask signals MASK_F1through MASK_F5 and latency option LO.

Second decoding unit DU2 is configured the same as first decoding unitDU1 except that it receives first through fifth falling mask signalsMASK_F1 through MASK_F5 instead of first through fifth rising masksignals MASK_R1 through MASK_R5. Accordingly, a further description ofsecond decoding unit DU2 is omitted. Where first and second decodingunits DU1 and DU2 are configured as illustrated in FIG. 14, the timingof generating first clock CLK1 can be adjusted according to latencyoption LO.

As described with reference to FIG. 14, first and second decoding unitsDU1 and DU2 can be implemented using decoders with relatively lowcomplexity. Accordingly, it is possible to provide rising and fallingmask signals MASK_R and MASK_F by adjusting an offset supplied todecoders of relatively low complexity.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a nonvolatile memory device 100a accordingto a second embodiment of the inventive concept.

Referring to FIG. 15, a nonvolatile memory device 100a comprises memorycell array 110, an address decoder 120a, first through fourth read andwrite circuits 131 through 134, a clock generator 140a, combinationlogic 150, de-multiplexer 160, input/output driver 170, a programcircuit 180a, and control logic 190. Nonvolatile memory device 100a hasthe same structure as that illustrated in FIG. 1 except for the features120a, 140a, and 180a.

Address decoder 120a receives latency option LO from program circuit180a. Address decoder 120a comprises dummy address generator 121. Dummyaddress generator 121 generates a dummy address based on latency optionLO. Address decoder 120a decodes the dummy address and a receivedaddress ADDR. The dummy address is an address in first through fourthsub-arrays 111 through 114.

Clock generator 140a generates first and second clocks CLK1 and CLK2.For example, where read enable signal /RE starts to be toggled, clockgenerator 140a generates first and second clocks CLK1 and CLK2synchronized at a first rising edge of read enable signal /RE.

Program circuit 180a stores latency option LO. Latency option LOcomprises information indicating the number of dummy addresses generatedby dummy address generator 121.

Nonvolatile memory device 100a operates in a manner described withreference to FIG. 2. That is, first through fourth read and writecircuits 131 through 134 of nonvolatile memory device 100a areconfigured to output read data via de-multiplexer 160 and input/outputdriver 170 after strobe signal DQS is toggled a predetermined number oftimes.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating a method of performing a readoperation in the nonvolatile memory device 100a of FIG. 15 according toan embodiment of the inventive concept. The method of FIG. 16corresponds to step S150 described in FIG. 2.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 15, and 16, nonvolatile memory device 100agenerates at least one dummy address based on a received address ADDR(S310). For example, dummy address generator 121 can generate a dummyaddress using a previously stored address. Dummy address generator 121can be configured to generate the dummy address using at least oneaddress of received address ADDR.

Next, nonvolatile memory device 100a reads out data corresponding to theat least one dummy address (S320). Address decoder 120a decodes a dummyrow address of the at least one dummy address to select word lines WL.Address decoder 120a also decodes a dummy column address of the at leastone dummy address. First through fourth read and write circuits 131through 134 read data corresponding to the at least one dummy addressbased on the decoded dummy column address.

Thereafter, nonvolatile memory device 100a reads out data correspondingto the received address ADDR (S330). Address decoder 120a decodes a rowaddress of the received address ADDR to select word lines WL, and itdecodes a column address of the received address ADDR. First throughfourth read and write circuits 131 through 134 read data correspondingto the received address ADDR based on the decoded column address.

FIG. 17 is a timing diagram for describing a read operation ofnonvolatile memory device 100a of FIG. 15 with a latency optionaccording to an embodiment of the inventive concept.

Referring to FIGS. 15 and 17, at time t4, read enable signal /RE startsto be toggled. Input/output driver 170 generates strobe signal DQSaccording to a transition of read enable signal /RE. Clock generator140a generates first clock CLK1 and second clock CLK2.

Dummy address generator 121 generates at least one dummy addressaccording to latency option LO. It is assumed that dummy addressgenerator 121 generates four dummy addresses.

First through fourth read and write circuits 131 through 134 read datacorresponding to the generated dummy addresses. Read data DD is outputas input/output signal DQ via de-multiplexer 160 and input/output driver170.

After data corresponding to the dummy addresses is read, first throughfourth read and write circuits 131 through 134 read data correspondingto the received address ADDR. Read data D1 through D8 is output asinput/output signal DQ via de-multiplexer 160 and input/output driver170.

Data corresponding to the received address ADDR is output after datacorresponding to at least one dummy address is output. That is, datacorresponding to the received address ADDR is output after strobe signalDQS is toggled a predetermined number of times. The reliability ofnonvolatile memory device 110a is improved because data signal DQ isoutput after data strobe signal DQS is stabilized.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a memory system 1000 according to anembodiment of the inventive concept.

Referring to FIG. 18, memory system 1000 comprises a nonvolatile memorydevice 1100 and a controller 1200. Nonvolatile memory device 1100 canhave the same structure and function as nonvolatile memory device 100 or100a. Accordingly, nonvolatile memory device 1100 can outputinput/output signal DQ after strobe signal DQS is toggled apredetermined number of times.

Controller 1200 is connected with a host and nonvolatile memory device1100. Controller 1200 accesses nonvolatile memory device 1100 inresponse to a request from the host. Controller 1200 controls read,write, erase, and background operations of nonvolatile memory device1100, and it provides an interface between the host and nonvolatilememory device 1100. Controller 1200 can also drive firmware forcontrolling nonvolatile memory device 1100.

Controller 1200 provides a control signal CTRL and an address ADDR tononvolatile memory device 1100. Controller 1200 provides a read enablesignal /RE and a chip enable signal /CE to nonvolatile memory device1100.

Controller 1200 exchanges an input/output signal DQ with nonvolatilememory device 1100. In a read operation, controller 1200 receives a datasignal DQ from nonvolatile memory device 1100 after a strobe signal DQSfrom nonvolatile memory device 110 is toggled a predetermined number oftimes.

Controller 1200 can comprise, for instance, a RAM, a processing unit, ahost interface, a memory interface, and other features. The RAM can beused as a working memory of the processing unit, a cache memory betweennonvolatile memory device 1100 and the host, and a buffer memory betweennonvolatile memory device 110 and the host. The processing unit controlsan overall operation of controller 1200.

The host interface implements a protocol for data exchange between thehost and controller 1200. Controller 1200 typically communicates withthe host via at least one of a universal serial bus (USB) protocol, amultimedia card (MMC) protocol, a peripheral component interconnection(PCI) protocol, a PCI-express (PCI-E) protocol, an advanced technologyattachment (ATA) protocol, a serial-ATA protocol, a parallel-ATAprotocol, a small computer small interface (SCSI) protocol, an enhancedsmall disk interface (ESDI) protocol, and an integrated driveelectronics (IDE) protocol. The memory interface facilitatescommunication with nonvolatile memory device 1100, and it can comprise,for instance, a NAND interface or a NOR interface.

Memory system 1000 further comprises an EEC block that detects andcorrects errors in data read out from nonvolatile memory device 1100using ECC parity data. The ECC block is typically implemented as anelement of controller 1200 or nonvolatile memory device 1100.

Controller 1200 and nonvolatile memory device 1100 can be integrated inone semiconductor device. For example, in some embodiments, controller1200 and nonvolatile memory device 1100 are integrated in onesemiconductor device to form a memory card such as a PC card, a CF card,SM, SMC, a memory stick, MMC, RS-MMC, MMCmicro, an SD card, a miniSDcard, a microSD card, SDHC, or a UFS card.

Controller 1200 and nonvolatile memory device 1100 can also beintegrated in one semiconductor device to form a solid state drive(SSD). Where memory system 1000 is used as an SSD, it can improve anoperating speed of a host connected with memory system 1000.

Memory system 1000 can be used in various types of devices, such as acomputer, portable computer, Ultra Mobile PC (UMPC), workstation,net-book, PDA, web tablet, wireless phone, mobile phone, smart phone,e-book, PMP (portable multimedia player), digital camera, digital audiorecorder/player, digital picture/video recorder/player, portable gamemachine, navigation system, black box, 3-dimensional television, adevice capable of transmitting and receiving information at a wirelesscircumstance, one of various electronic devices constituting homenetwork, one of various electronic devices constituting computernetwork, one of various electronic devices constituting telematicsnetwork, RFID, or one of various electronic devices constitutingcomputing system.

Nonvolatile memory device 1100 or memory system 1000 can be packagedusing various types of packages or package configurations such aspackage on package (PoP), ball grid arrays (BGAs), chip scale packages(CSPs), plastic leaded chip carrier (PLCC), plastic dual in-line package(PDIP), die in waffle pack, die in wafer form, chip on board (COB),ceramic dual in-line package (CERDIP), metric quad flat pack (MQFP),small outline integrated circuit (SOIC), shrink small outline package(SSOP), thin small outline package (TSOP), thin quad flatpack (TQFP),system in package (SIP), multi chip package (MCP), Wafer-levelFabricated Package (WFP), and Wafer-Level Processed Stack Package (WSP).

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a memory system 2000 comprising multiplenonvolatile memory chips according to an embodiment of the inventiveconcept.

Referring to FIG. 19, memory system 2000 comprises a nonvolatile memorydevice 2100 and a controller 2200. Nonvolatile memory device 2100comprises a plurality of nonvolatile memory chips divided into aplurality of groups. The nonvolatile memory chips in each group areconfigured to communicate with controller 2200 via a common channel. Theplurality of nonvolatile memory chips communicates controller 2200 via aplurality of channels CH1 through CHk.

Each of the nonvolatile memory chips has the same structure andfunctionality as nonvolatile memory device 100 or 100a. Accordingly,each nonvolatile memory chip outputs an input/output signal DQ after astrobe signal DQS is toggled a predetermined number of times. AlthoughFIG. 19 shows a plurality of nonvolatile memory chips connected with onechannel, memory system 200 can be modified so that a nonvolatile memorychip is connected with one channel.

FIG. 20 is a block diagram of a computing system 3000 comprising memorysystem 2000 of FIG. 19.

Referring to FIG. 20, computing system 3000 comprises a centralprocessing unit (CPU) 3100, RAM 3200, a user interface 3300, a powersupply 3400, and a memory system 2000.

Memory system 2000 is connected to features 3100 through 3400 via asystem bus 3500. Data provided via user interface 3300 or processed byCPU 3100 is stored in memory system 2000.

Although FIG. 20 shows nonvolatile memory device 2100 connected withsystem bus 3500 via controller 2200, nonvolatile memory device 2100could alternatively be connected directly to system bus 3500. Inaddition, although the embodiment of FIG. 20 includes memory system2000, it could alternatively include memory system 1000 or anothermemory system. Moreover, computing system 3000 could be modified toincorporate both of memory systems 1000 and 2000.

The foregoing is illustrative of embodiments and is not to be construedas limiting thereof. Although a few embodiments have been described,those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modificationsare possible in the embodiments without materially departing from thenovel teachings and advantages of the inventive concept. Accordingly,all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope ofthe inventive concept as defined in the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of reading a nonvolatile memory deviceincluding a plurality of nonvolatile memory cells, the methodcomprising: receiving a read command and a read address; in response tothe read command, reading data from first memory cells corresponding tothe read address among the plurality of nonvolatile memory cells;receiving a read enable signal, the read enable signal being toggledafter the receiving the read command and the read address; generating astrobe signal based on the read enable signal; outputting the strobesignal to an external device; and outputting, to the external device,the data read from the first memory cells in synchronization with thestrobe signal in response to a latency value, the latency value beingcorresponding to the number of toggling of the strobe signal between thereceiving the read command and the read address and the outputting thedata, the latency value being zero or a positive integer, wherein theread enable signal remains constant while the read command and the readaddress are received, and the latency value is stored in the nonvolatilememory device and is programmable with a set command.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the outputting the data includes: generating a delayedclock by delaying the read enable signal based on the latency value; andoutputting the data in response to the delayed clock.
 3. The method ofclaim 2, wherein the data is output in synchronization with a firstrising edge and a first falling edge of the strobe signal after thereceiving the read command and the read address when the latency valueis zero.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the outputting the datastarts from a second rising edge or a second falling edge of the strobesignal after the receiving the read command and the read address whenthe latency value is one.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein thenonvolatile memory device includes a three dimensional memory arrayincluding a plurality of memory cell strings.
 6. A nonvolatile memorydevice, comprising: a plurality of nonvolatile memory cells included inthe nonvolatile memory device; a program circuit configured to store alatency value; an address decoder configured to receive a read addressand configured to select at least one memory cell corresponding to theread address among the plurality of nonvolatile memory cells; a controllogic configured to receive a read command and a read enable signal; aread and write circuit configured to read data from the at least one ofthe memory cell in response to the read command; and an input/outputdriver configured to generate a strobe signal in response to the readenable signal, configured to output the strobe signal to an externaldevice, and configured to output to the external device the data insynchronization with the strobe signal, wherein outputting the data readfrom the at least one of the memory cell starts after the strobe signalis toggled N times, N is corresponding to a latency value the readenable signal is not toggled during the read command is received by thecontrol circuit and the read address is received by the address decoder,the read enable signal is toggled after the read command is received bythe control circuit and the read address is received by the addressdecoder, and the latency value is programmable using a set commandprovided by the external device.
 7. The nonvolatile memory device ofclaim 6, further comprising a clock generator configured to generate aclock delaying the read enable signal.
 8. The nonvolatile memory deviceof claim 7, wherein the read and write circuit configured to provide thedata to the input/output driver in response to the clock.
 9. Thenonvolatile memory device of claim 8, wherein the clock generator isconfigured to generator the clock in response to the latency value. 10.The nonvolatile memory device of claim 7, wherein the memory cell arrayincludes a three dimensional memory array, the three dimensional memoryarray including a plurality of memory cell strings.
 11. A nonvolatilememory system, comprising: a controller configured to provide a readenable signal, a read command and a read address; and a nonvolatilememory device including a plurality of nonvolatile memory cells,configured to read data from first memory cells corresponding to theread address among the plurality of nonvolatile memory cells in responseto the read command, configured to generate a strobe signal in responseto the read enable signal, and configured to store a latency value;wherein the nonvolatile memory device is configured to output the datato the controller in synchronization with the strobe signal in responseto the latency value; the controller configured to control the readenable signal remaining constant while the read command and the readaddress are received by the nonvolatile memory device, and configured tocontrol the read enable signal toggling after the read command and theread address are received by the nonvolatile memory device, a start ofthe outputting the data occurs after the strobe signal is toggled Ntimes, N being a value corresponding to the latency value, and thelatency value is programmable with a set command.
 12. The nonvolatilememory system of claim 11, wherein, when the latency value is zero, thedata is output in synchronization with a first rising edge and a firstfalling edge of the strobe signal after the read address is received.13. The nonvolatile memory system of claim 11, wherein, when the latencyvalue is one, the start of the outputting the data occurs from a secondrising edge or a second falling edge of the strobe signal after thereceiving the read command and the read address.
 14. The nonvolatilememory system of claim 11, wherein the nonvolatile memory device isconfigured generate a delayed clock by delaying the read enable signalbased on the latency value and to output the data in response to thedelayed clock.
 15. The nonvolatile memory system of claim 11, whereinthe nonvolatile memory device includes a three dimensional nonvolatilememory array, the three dimensional nonvolatile memory array including aplurality of memory cell strings.
 16. A method of reading a nonvolatilememory device, comprising: receiving a read command and a read address;reading data from a plurality of nonvolatile memory cells correspondingto the read address in response to the read command, the plurality ofnonvolatile memory cells being included in the nonvolatile memorydevice, receiving a read enable signal; generating a strobe signal inresponse to toggling of the read enable signal; and outputting the dataread from the plurality of nonvolatile memory cells together with thestrobe signal to an external device, wherein a start of the outputtingthe data occurs after the strobe signal is toggled N times, N being avalue corresponding to a latency value, the latency value beingprogrammable by a set command, wherein the read enable signal remainsconstant while the read command and the read address are received, andthe read enable signal is toggled after the read command and the readaddress are received.
 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the data isoutput in synchronization with rising edges and falling edges of thestrobe signal.
 18. The method of claim 16, wherein the data is output insynchronization with a first rising edge and a first falling edge of thestrobe signal when the latency option is zero.
 19. The method of claim16, wherein the outputting the data includes: generating a delayed clockby delaying the read enable signal based on the latency value; andoutputting the data in response to the delayed clock.
 20. The method ofclaim 16, wherein the nonvolatile memory device includes a threedimensional nonvolatile memory array, the three dimensional nonvolatilememory array including a plurality of memory cell strings.
 21. A memorycontroller, comprising: an input/output driver configured to: transmit aregister setting value of a nonvolatile memory device; transmit a readcommand and a read address; transmit a read enable signal; receive aread data corresponding to the read address; receive a strobe signal,the strobe signal toggling during receiving the read data and furthertoggling a predetermined number of times immediately before receivingthe read data; and receive a dummy data in synchronization with thestrobe signal further toggling the predetermined number of times,wherein the strobe signal is generated based on the read enable signalafter a first delay time from the read enable signal starting togglingregardless of the predetermined number of times.
 22. The memorycontroller of claim 21, wherein the predetermined number of times is setbased on the register setting value.
 23. The memory controller of claim22, wherein the predetermined number of times is set into one of zeroclock cycle, one clock cycle and two clock cycle.
 24. The memorycontroller of claim 23, wherein both the read data and the dummy dataare received through identical input/output signal (DQ) terminals. 25.The memory controller of claim 24, wherein the dummy data is based onthe read address.
 26. A method of operating a controller for controllinga nonvolatile memory device, the method comprising: transmitting aregister setting value of the nonvolatile memory device; transmitting aread command and a read address to the nonvolatile memory device;transmitting a read enable signal to the nonvolatile memory device;receiving a strobe signal from the nonvolatile memory device, the strobesignal being generated based on the read enable signal and togglingduring data output period of the nonvolatile memory device; andreceiving a read data corresponding to the read address from thenonvolatile memory device in synchronization with the strobe signal,wherein the strobe signal further toggles a predetermined number oftimes immediately before receiving the read data, and a dummy data isreceived in synchronization with the strobe signal toggling thepredetermined number of times.
 27. The method of claim 26, wherein thepredetermined number of times is set based on the register settingvalue.
 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the predetermined number oftimes is set into one of zero clock cycle, one clock cycle and two clockcycle.
 29. The method of claim 28, wherein both the read data and thedummy data are received through identical input/output signal (DQ)terminals.
 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the strobe signal isgenerated after a first delay time from starting toggling of the readenable signal regardless of the predetermined number of times.
 31. Themethod of claim 30, wherein the dummy data is based on the read address.32. A method of operating a controller for controlling a nonvolatilememory device, the method comprising: transmitting a register settingvalue of the nonvolatile memory device; transmitting a read command anda read address to the nonvolatile memory device; transmitting a readenable signal to the nonvolatile memory device; receiving a strobesignal from the nonvolatile memory device, the strobe signal beinggenerated based on the read enable signal and toggling during dataoutput period of the nonvolatile memory device; and receiving a readdata corresponding to the read address from the nonvolatile memorydevice in synchronization with the strobe signal, wherein the strobesignal further toggles a predetermined number of times immediatelybefore receiving the read data and the strobe signal is generated aftera first delay time from the read enable signal starting togglingregardless of the predetermined number of times.
 33. The method of claim32, wherein the predetermined number of times is set based on theregister setting value.
 34. The method of claim 33, wherein thepredetermined number of times is set into one of zero clock cycle, oneclock cycle and two clock cycle.
 35. The method of claim 32, furtherreceiving a dummy data in synchronization with the strobe signaltoggling the predetermined number of times.
 36. The method of claim 35,wherein both the read data and the dummy data are received throughidentical input/output signal (DQ) terminals.
 37. The method of claim36, wherein the dummy data is based on the read address.
 38. A memorysystem comprising: a controller configured to: transmit a registersetting value; transmit a read command and a read address; transmit aread enable signal; and a nonvolatile memory device configured to:transmit the strobe signal generated based on the read enable signal,the strobe signal toggles during data output period of the nonvolatilememory device; and transmit a read data corresponding to the readaddress in synchronization with a strobe signal, the read data aretransmitted after the strobe signal further toggling predeterminednumber of times, wherein the strobe signal is generated after a firstdelay time from the toggling of the read enable signal regardless of thepredetermined number of times.
 39. The memory system of claim 38,wherein the predetermined number of times is set based on the registersetting value.
 40. The memory system of claim 39, wherein thepredetermined number of times is set into one of zero clock cycle, oneclock cycle and two clock cycle.
 41. The memory system of claim 38,wherein further configured to receive a dummy data in synchronizationwith the strobe signal toggling the predetermined number of times. 42.The memory system of claim 41, wherein both the read data and the dummydata are received through identical input/output signal (DQ) terminals.43. The memory system of claim 42, wherein the dummy data is based onthe read address.
 44. A memory controller, comprising: an input/outputdriver configured to: transmit a register setting value of a nonvolatilememory device; transmit a read command and a read address; transmit aread enable signal; receive a read data corresponding to the readaddress; receive a strobe signal, the strobe signal toggling duringreceiving the read data and further toggling a predetermined number oftimes immediately before receiving the read data, wherein the strobesignal is generated based on the read enable signal after a first delaytime from the read enable signal starting toggling regardless of thepredetermined number of times.
 45. The memory controller of claim 44,wherein the predetermined number of times is set based on the registersetting value.
 46. The memory controller of claim 45, wherein thepredetermined number of times is set into one of zero clock cycle, oneclock cycle and two clock cycle.
 47. The memory controller of claim 44,wherein a dummy data is received in synchronization with the strobesignal toggling the predetermined number of times.
 48. The memorycontroller of claim 47, wherein both the read data and the dummy dataare received through identical input/output signal (DQ) terminals. 49.The memory controller of claim 48, wherein the dummy data is based onthe read address.
 50. A memory controller, comprising: an input/outputdriver configured to: transmit a register setting value of a nonvolatilememory device; transmit a read command and a read address; transmit aread enable signal; receive a read data corresponding to the readaddress; receive a strobe signal, the strobe signal toggling duringreceiving the read data and further toggling a predetermined number oftimes immediately before receiving the read data; and receive a dummydata in synchronization with the strobe signal further toggling thepredetermined number of times, wherein the strobe signal is generatedbased on the read enable signal.
 51. The memory controller of claim 50,wherein the predetermined number of times is set based on the registersetting value.
 52. The memory controller of claim 51, wherein thepredetermined number of times is set into one of zero clock cycle, oneclock cycle and two clock cycle.
 53. The memory controller of claim 50,wherein both the read data and the dummy data are received throughidentical input/output signal (DQ) terminals.
 54. The memory controllerof claim 53, wherein the strobe signal is generated after a first delaytime from the toggling of the read enable signal regardless of thepredetermined number of times.
 55. The memory controller of claim 54,wherein the dummy data is based on the read address.